Protect yourself and family from ancient critters who bug us

Ancient critters that bug us include mosquitos and ticks.  Today we will look at recommended safe ways to using insect repellents according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

1.      Follow the insect repellent label to properly apply repellents to exposed skin or clothing.  Don’t apply repellent under clothes. 

2.      Do not apply the insect repellent over wounds, cuts or irritated skin.

3.      Do not apply (or spray) insect repellent onto the face, especially eyes and mouth. A safer way to apply to the face is spray it onto your hands and then apply to face (avoiding eyes and mouth).

4.      Apply the repellent for children by applying it to your hands and then gently rubbing it onto the child’s skin. Avoid the child’s eyes and mouth. You should avoid getting it on the child’s hands. Do not let children play with insect repellent containers.

5.      Apply the insect repellent in a light (not heavy) coat. If the first light coat doesn’t repel, add another light coat of insect repellent.

6.      When going back indoors, wash the repellent off treated skin with soap and water or bathe.  Launder clothes before you wear them again. (Check the product label about clothes laundering.)

7.      If anyone using the insect repellent develops a rash or itching, wash the repellent off with soap and water, stop applying the repellent product and call your local poison center. Take the repellent product with you for any doctor visits pertaining to the rash, itching reaction. 

This information can be found at the CDC website:  http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/repellentupdates.htm